Army Sgt. Lonell Zimmerman looks over some papers at a job fair aimed at helping military and former military members transition to civilian jobs, in Cherry Hill, N.J, May 3, 2011. (AP Photo/Mel Evans)

(Newser)
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The job market isn’t friendly territory in general these days, but it’s looking especially brutal for veterans. Unemployment payments to veterans have doubled since 2008, with the military doling out $882 million in benefits last year, USA Today reports—and this year is looking even worse. Joblessness among 18- to 24-year-old vets was pegged at more than 30% last month, compared to 18% for civilians of the same age.

Assuming they’re honorably discharged, service members are eligible for unemployment, with the military reimbursing states for the benefits paid to them. “We’re currently spending that much for people who are sitting home becoming more and more depressed,” said Sen. Patty Murray, who is pushing legislation to make career-building classes mandatory for all troops. The Pentagon says it already intends to expand those programs, which are currently optional.

I am just glad that those posting negative remarks about the military were born when you were born instead of in the founding years and Civil War years of our country, because we'd still be in England under church rule, without any of the freedoms which you abuse her in My America...thanks for being born a weakling and a couch warrior (if that applies to you)...much, much later..Whew!!

Dezfan

Jun 18, 2011 8:26 AM CDT

Best why to stop all this BS, is to quit sending our money and kids into harms way, to defend anyone and everyone just to support the American arms cartel. Don't even bother giving me any of that crap about keeping America safe, it's the exact reason why America isn't safe. Unfortunately this situation completely avoidable.

Fascist_Jack

Jun 17, 2011 9:41 PM CDT

One day, in an ideal Fascist state, military personnel will have the highest rank/privileges in a society. However, right now, corruption is the order of the day, so only those connected to Union buddies can get government jobs. One should be guaranteed a government job after serving in the military.